The Way We Work 2015: Timothy Dahl’s DIY Tools & Productivity Tips
Every week, we share shortcuts, workspaces, and productivity tips from our favorite experts. Today is my turn, so here are some of my favorite tools, tricks, and everything I do to get there.
As a writer for Workshop , I spend a lot of time on my computer, and while my fellow Lifehacker bloggers come up with ways to save money or stay healthy , I can play with the instruments as well.
I’ve learned a lot from all the great comments on my posts, and I’m always grateful to people who share their experiences while working on a project. Here’s my chance to tell a little about myself.
Location: Los Angeles, California. Current Talk: When I’m not writing for Workshop, I use Charles & Hudson , Built by Kids (just launched Announcements ) and Tool Crave . One word that best describes how you work: Relentless Current mobile device: iPhone 6 (Just updated from iPhone 4S – I usually miss one or two generations. I updated mostly for slow motion video and battery that lasted longer than two hours ..) Current computer: 2009 27-inch iMac and 2006 Macbook (it still works, but since I can’t upgrade from a previous version of Snow Leopard I’m limited in apps and programs)
What apps / programs / tools can’t you live without? Why?
I own Google. As much as I hate to say it, and as much as I try to diversify, I always go back to Google tools. I can’t get away from Google Maps (required to navigate Los Angeles), Calendar, Analytics, AdSense, YouTube, and Docs. At least I don’t have google hardware.
I am currently digging a Sunrise calendar app for iOS. It combines all my Google calendars, Asana and Facebook events into one calendar that’s fast loading and easy to add and edit on my iPhone.
I love my Milwaukee Sawzall because of the hands-on tools and I am looking for any excuse to use it. I also use my Bosch laser measuring tool as often as I can because it is fun and very informative.
How is your workplace arranged?
I spend 80-90% of my working day at the table. This is a mid-century modern wood table that fits perfectly into my 10×10 studio in my backyard.
My workshop is outdoors where I have two work tables, a pair of goats and a jaw . One work table is a solid wood door with 4×4 legs for general woodworking and painting jobs . I have a Rockwell lumber storage rack to keep all my trimmings in one place and not on the floor.
I have a small Irwin vise that is great for kids projects and light work, but I’d like to upgrade to a suitable table vise.
The other is an old steel restaurant kitchen table that I bought from Craigslist and use for all my other DIY projects and fuss.
In my garage, I have a Craftsman stainless steel toolbox that I won whilebuilding a mailbox from Mike Senese . I’m still not sure how I dealt with the disorder, but I love breasts. It’s sturdy and sturdy, and the drawers slide like butter.
What’s your best time-saving shortcut / life hack?
Since I became a parent, time has become much more valuable, but instead of trying to check my email at breakfast or answer phone calls while playing, I went in the opposite direction.
I find myself saying no more. Not negative, but priority. My circle of friends narrowed and my business and work became more focused. This is addition by subtraction.
What’s your favorite to-do list manager?
Post-Its right now. But I’m trying to find out how best to use Evernote .
What device, besides a phone and a computer, can you not live without and why?
I have a fancy Olympus Pen E-P5 . I wear a 17mm pancake lens on it and wear it everywhere. I’m enjoying the new GoPro Hero 4 Silver . Great for shooting my son at low angles and for shooting occasional videos with tools. I still carry a flip camera with me as it is the most comfortable camcorder I have ever had.
Still I like my multitool Leatherman Wave and folding knife SOG II of the Flash . I love knives, and there are many more of them than I need.
Instead of using a toolbox to carry tools from garage to workbench or workbench to truck, I always use a nylon bag that I bought from an Army / Navy surplus store.
It is designed to be used as a field medical bag, but is ideal for carrying tools and equipment. It does not tear, has many internal and external pockets. So many treasures can be found in surplus shops.
What are some of your best everyday activities? What’s your secret?
I’m a damn good parallel park specialist. I lived in New York for 8 years and didn’t have a car, and then when I moved to Los Angeles, I got a 2001 F-150 SuperCrew. I had to quickly learn how to squeeze this truck into tight spaces. Parallel parking on PCH is a must for accessing good surfing spots, and the added pressure of oncoming traffic behind me helped hone my skills. Parking reversing cameras confuse me. No secret, it’s just practice.
What do you listen to while you work?
I’ll tune in to a WSL event if it’s taking place, or listen to This Week in Startups . For the rest, I love the silence.
What are you reading now?
I just finished Empire of the Summer Moon, which was brilliant but brutal.
Are you more of an introvert or an extrovert?
10 years ago I would have been firmly in the introvert camp, but lately I have moved to the extroverted side. This is strange.
What is your sleep routine?
Fortunately, I can sleep less, but I like to sleep well. I get up late for work after putting our son to bed, and I get up early with him. I keep all screens away from the bedroom, so the little I sleep is deep and usually stays continuous.
Fill in the blank: I would like _________ to answer these same questions.
Elon Musk. He does things like no other.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Try to become a valuable person, not a successful person. ~ My high school wrestling coach